Man who shot himself at Scheels was 19

Eden Prairie Police provided an incident update Tuesday on the man who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound Monday evening at Scheels in Eden Prairie Center mall.

According to a preliminary investigation, a 19-year-old man asked a store employee to view a semi-automatic handgun in the gun department. When the employee handed the unloaded weapon to the man, he fled across the store toward the archery area while loading the handgun. The man then fired a single shot.

Though it’s early in the investigation, it is believed the man brought his own ammunition into the store.

Police were called to Scheels at about 7:25 p.m. Monday on the report of a shot fired. Upon arriving, officers discovered the man dead with a gunshot wound on the store’s second floor. At the time, it was unclear whether the shot was self-inflicted or if there was a suspect at large. The store was evacuated, and the mall was placed on lockdown until it was determined there was no danger to the public.

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In the incident update posted on the city’s website, the police thanked Scheels and Eden Prairie Center mall employees for their immediate actions in helping to ensure the safety of those inside the mall and the public’s cooperation during the incident. 

Here is a link to our earlier story.

Police have not identified the man. Because it’s an ongoing investigation, police stated that no further details are available. 

In the wake of the incident, Scheels delayed opening its store until noon on Tuesday. The mall opened Tuesday at 10 a.m., its usual time. 

EP Center officials stated on the mall’s social media accounts that “our thoughts are with the Eden Prairie community following last night’s tragic isolated incident at Scheels.”

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Officials added that the safety of “our tenants and shoppers is a top priority, and we want to thank all of our guests and tenants who responded quickly and followed security guidance during the lockdown.”

The Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce canceled its Business@Breakfast event, originally scheduled for Wednesday morning in the Scheels community room. 

“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved and impacted by the tragedy,” the chamber stated in an email sent to its members. “We are thankful for the immediate response of our local first responders, Scheels staff, Eden Prairie Center staff and everyone that ensured the safety of the patrons and staff members that were there. Please keep those impacted by this tragedy in your thoughts.”

For those who feel they may need to seek trauma or grief help, the chamber urged people to visit Brighter Days Family Grief Center for resources or direct assistance.

If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.